Planning permission given to modernise facilities for adults with learning disabilities in Kirklees
Modernisation of day care facilities in North Kirklees are set to go ahead after receiving planning permission.
Where will the works happen?
We will be repurposing and modernising day care facilities for adults with learning disabilities at Mill Dale and Crescent Dale in Heckmondwike. The existing buildings will be repurposed to support up to 40 adults with profound and multiple learning disabilities and autism.
It is our vision for all people with complex disabilities in Kirklees that they have the best start in life and are independent in adulthood. The updated facilities will incorporate design features that will give maximum flexibility, be fully inclusive and promote independence.
About the new facilities
There will be immersive rooms to enable multi-sensory experiences and specialist assistive technology including an interactive Magic table. A variety of small, medium and large rooms will cater for different activities; the landscaping will improve to include specialist disability and wheelchair swings; and there will be separate outdoor eating areas, raised beds and a potting shed for service users to develop their green fingers.
Councillor Beverley Addy, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health said:
“I’m delighted that we can take the next steps in this key investment project. Now is the time to further improve facilities for our residents with learning and complex physical disabilities – both to support adults facing these difficulties now and for those children who will access support in the future, so they can be supported to live well, independently and achieve better outcomes.
“Three years ago, we upgraded respite facilities at Cherry Trees in Shepley, and this investment now will bring facilities in North Kirklees in line with those more modern and fit for purpose facilities in the south of the district.”
All proposed building changes will incorporate design and technology features that support neurodiversity and people with complex physical disabilities.
Timeframe for works
Building works will commence in Spring 2025 with the service set to move into the revamped facilities by Summer 2026.